Celebrity Holiday Homes

T’was the night before Christmas, 37 years ere
Down in Dunwoody, Georgia, where the snowfall is rare
Though winter’d not visit, despite the townspeople’s behest
Santa did bring a gift to the family Seacrest
Into the world sprung young Ryan on that Christmas Eve
Knowing then not a lick of the mark he would leave
A boy of small stature, but smile so wide
He’d set out to become his town’s Christmas pride
He’d perform from the get-go, at home and at school
He even made radio — all thanks to his yule
But what he couldn’t know then was a truth harsh and terse:
Ryan’s Christmastime birthday would be a Christmastime curse
Young Seacrest would soon come to leave his Southern neighborhood
To bring wintery magic to the great Hollywood
But though he was his suburb’s own holiday icon, no doubt
Seacrest would contend with the big guns from there on out
Santa’s the true pride of Christmas, a figure so spectacular
Jesus as well, but let’s keep it secular
How could Ryan compete with a man so revered?
He didn’t have flying reindeer, could not grow a beard
But Seacrest would never be outdone by St. Nick
He’d take every job — yeah, that’d do the trick
He’d join up with Fox to host American Idol
But this wasn’t enough to earn him his desired title
So more jobs he’d gather, through more boundaries he’d tear
Though some were short lived, like American Juniors and On-Air
Still, he’d not quit — in himself, he believed
And soon, he’d be rocking many a New Years Eve
He’d visit Red Carpets, correspond with Today
Produce 15 shows for his old pal Kim K
And still, Seacrest was not safe from the occasional bashing
Like Joel McHale’s jabs, or Sacha Baron Cohen’s ashing
But even with celebrity snark making his journey tough
So many jokes about him and his love, Julianne Hough
Seacrest keeps smiling, keeps taking new roles
Bringing joy and entertainment to innumerable souls
So perhaps we were wrong (though saying that makes us miffed)
Maybe his Christmastime birth is no curse, but a gift
For it charged him to be a Santa all his own
Delivering yearlong merriment to American homes
A more ambitious young man you’re not likely to find
Next time you’re mocking his height, just keep that in mind
So at this time of year, we think of our friend Ryan
Who has made it to age 37 (no thanks to the Mayans)
And as we close our poem now, we’ve one last thing to say:
Merry Christmas to all — and to Seacrest, Happy Birthday.
[Photo Credit: Twitter]
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Did you eat up the lush, green scenery in Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey? We did to! Of course, it was easy to when Bag End was made of graham crackers, frosting, and green M&amp;Ms.
But the Shire wasn't the only piece of real estate that inspired Hollywood.com to craft pop culture gingerbread* houses. Our team built structures from Up, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and more in celebration of the holiday season. Click below to see what pop culture real estate properties we turned into home sweet home. Literally.
10 Gingerbread Houses Inspired by Pop Culture *Psych — they're all made of graham crackers! What an unexpected journey we've taken you on! More:Pop Culture Potluck! 12 TV and Movie-Inspired Thanksgiving Day Dishes2012 Homes That Hit Home: The 12 Best (and Worst) Real Estate Properties in FilmLifetime's 40 Years of Santa, Baby: Inside the Network's Holiday Movie Machine You Might Also Like: 20 Hot (and Horrifying) Movie Sex Scenes 20 Biggest Breakout Stars of the Year!

It was a good week for comedy, and the writers of Saturday Night Live knew it. During its new episode Saturday — hosted by Jeremy Renner — the series drew inspiration from the week's most salacious headline: General David Petraeus' affair with biographer Paula Broadwell. The scandal made for such good fodder, the series spun it off into two sketches, the second featuring Tampa socialite Jill Kelley... in drag.
Kicking right into action, fake Paula Broadwell (played by newbie Cecily Strong) took the stage in a C-SPAN Booknotes parody in which the biographer read excerpts of her now-famous book, All In: The Education of General David Petraeus. But SNL's writers tapped into E.L. James for inspiration, transforming Broadwell's words into dirty erotica. Sixty-year-old Petraeus is not quite Christian Grey, but that didn't stop Broadwell from pitting Petraeus in a Fifty Shades world.
Next up, first-time host and brooding actor Jeremy Renner began his debut monologue, eager to "show another side of" himself — and he did. After a technical mishap — the piano initially didn't work when Renner sat down and started hitting the keys — Renner was able to whip out a mini comedic musical number about The Avengers, inspired by Adele's Skyfall anthem. For a man mostly known to be skilled at working multiple types of weapons, Renner managed to work the room with his surprising musical talent. Perhaps the Kings of Leon should hire Renner as an opening act just for the actor's "Shoot Somebody" parody of "Use Somebody." Those high notes!
Since Black Friday is steadily approaching, why not incorporate some advertising? Right in time for the holidays, SNL mocked everyone's mixed feelings about returning to their parents' homes for the holiday with a faux travel ad for "Your Home Town." The pre-taped bit was one of the better skits of the night. We all know that we will be driving by our high schools and taking home the food from mom next week — even if those "souvenirs" end up with airport security instead of in our refrigerators.
But "The Californians: Thanksgiving"? Between the actors' overly exaggerated West Coast accents and the repetition of the soap opera meme, it seems like the writers gave in a bit too easily. (Especially since this was the second time in a few short weeks the series revived the recurring sketch.) The only thing to take away from "The Californians" is that Jeremy Renner should never — and I repeat, never — wear a George Clooney in The Descendants-esque floral shirt again. It just doesn't work for him.
"The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer" gave us more General Petraeus humor, spotlighting socialite Jill Kelley (again played by Strong) in a news clip that played over... and over... and over again. SNL even riffed on the circulating pic of Kelley supposedly wearing Mardi Gras beads and featured a special drag dramatization of Kelley's walk via newbie Tim Robinson.
And since we all can't imagine a Renner without weaponry, SNL gave us an action film-inspired parody, "The Stand Off." The sketch gave Renner plenty of ammo (comedic and otherwise), spotlighting a two-day stand-off that continues as Renner, Taran Killam, and Bobby Moynihan shower, sleep, and even use the bathroom. Bonus points for musical guest Adam Levine's funny cameo in the sketch.
When we got to "Weekend Update," Seth Meyers jumped on the Petraeus wagon too, making it the third time that the scandal appeared during the episode. (Worth it, for his joke about the scandal making Homeland look like a documentary.) Meyers riffed on the digital age as well — telling the audience they'll never get away with infidelity since the "head of the CIA couldn't get away with it" — and poor Florida, which of course was involved in the Petraeus scandal: "Sex scandals are like Jewish New Yorkers — eventually they always make their way to Florida." He then rattled off a few more jokes about the election, Channing Tatum becoming the People magazine's 2012 Sexiest Man Alive, an even chatted with Jay Pharoah's troubled Katt Williams.
But New Jersey Governor Chris Christie stole the spotlight on "Update," making a surprise visit to comment about the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. It's hard to imagine the moment was scripted too far in advance, and Christie did a respectable job reading his lines. Besides spending a little too much time looking at cue cards, the governor was able to animate the punchlines, especially when mocking angry New Jersey residents and taking a swing at the reporters who attempted to go out in the storm.
Finally, The Avengers (composed of SNL cast members — including Avengers star Cobie Smulders' husband Killam as Captain America — and Jeremy Renner) made their SNL debut. It only took them six months to get this bit in — the movie dropped in theaters back in May — but with Renner hosting, the time was finally right. The costumes left a bit to be desired (only Bill Hader as Thor really looked the part) but the bit managed to amuse, poking fun at Hawkeye's arrow-less uselessness. (“I’m all out of arrows. I don’t have anymore. So I guess I’m done, right? I’ll be in the car. Stay safe!”)
The night wrapped up with a sketch mocking Department of Defense propaganda. The "Cool Drones" cartoon definitely would have sold any stoner who is an avid fan of Aqua Teen Hunger Force on the idea of supporting the CIA's drone attacks on Pakistan. Especially if they love boy bands.
The only thing missing from the night? TWINKIES. They really are gone for good now, aren't they?
Follow Lindsey on Twitter @LDiMat.
[Photo Credit: NBC]
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Earlier this summer, entertainment outlets splashed the news of the Winklevoss twins dropping $18 Million on a mega mansion in Los Angeles. Let’s just think this through, okay?
So, Cameron and Tyler (they do have first names, really) go house shopping together, settle on a winner, and BOOM, out come the checkbook(s)? The news was reported so matter-of-factly: “Winklevoss Twins Buy Home Together.” Why, oh WHY would they be doing this at their age? Why is this something that these grown, 31-year-old men are doing together? What will they do there in that big house, just the two of them? Did they sit there with their joint checking account and gelled hair and sign checks side-by-side dreaming of nights in their spacious his and his bathroom?
Of course, famous pairs do tend to have a close bond many of us are fascinated with, but cannot comprehend. We’ve seen famous celebs do everything together: Dress the same. Talk the same. Have the same hobbies. The Olsen twins will always be The Olsen Twins for as long as Full House reruns are streaming and Holiday in the Sun is sold at Target, no matter how many times Mary-Kate dyes her hair or Ashley masks her body with layers of black on black on black. The Ryans, of Rob and Rex (alliteration, get it?), will always be the eccentric twins who both coach NFL teams, even if Rex had his stomach stapled and now looks half his brother’s size. There’s no hiding that signature goofy expression, Rex, as long as both your faces are zoomed-in on HD screens. And then there’s the Mowry sisters — Tia and Tamera forever and always starring in grade-B television shows together — who have just plain given up on trying to be anything but the same. exact. person. Now it seems the Winklevii are the latest pair to have us bewildered — especially since, unlike the Olsens and Mowrys, their closeness has nothing to do with marketability.
Not that they haven’t tried to use their twindom for cash. Remember that Wonderful Pistachios commercial where the twins really showed Mark Zuckerberg who’s boss by cracking some nuts for a no-name brand? (When the Mowrys made a cameo in this vintage Doublemint gum commercial, at least the premise was based on twins.)
A few weeks ago, the Winklevoss bros were spotted in N.Y.C. securing a five-year lease on an apartment, where they’ll be working on their newest venture. Media outlets and techies picked up the story, only not in the way you’d expect. TechSinner made Brew Media Relations founder Brooke Hammerling’s tweet a highlight in their article: “Spotted on 16th street: the Winklevii. They travel together. In white button downs. I may have shouted “Team Zuckerberg” #sorrynotsorry”. When they celebrated their birthday in August, the New York Post splashed “Kosher Times Two” describing their soiree at Menachem Senderowicz and Henry Stimler’s kosher restaurant, Jezebel. (Side note: at what point, as a twin, do you discontinue the ritual of joint birthday parties? Is the answer “never”?) And how can we forget when The Simpsons spoofed the Greek God-like creatures rowing? I mean, even Guest of a Guest has been snapping the pair, their identical frames sandwiching ladies that come their way. Because God forbid the two are separated, even for a woman. Let's pause for a moment on that note. A quick Google search of just one of the brothers is a rarity in itself. You get almost as many Mark Zuckerberg portraits as solo Cameron shots. Oh the irony!
And it seems they only fuel the fire. Stu Woo of The Wall Street Journal met with the duo to learn about Olympic-level rowing. As they stood around in matching outfits, Woo asked, “How am I supposed to tell the difference between you guys?” One of them (they really do need to wear name tags) explained that he is left-handed and his brother is a righty. A confused Woo replied, “Is that the only thing?” It was all either of them could think of. Even the description on Cameron’s Twitter handle (@winklevoss) reads: “I'm 6'5, 220 and there's two of me. Olympian, ConnectU Co-Founder, Entrepreneur, half of the Winklevoss Twins.” Tyler’s is similar (who currently boasts 81 more followers than his counterpart).
Is it possible they know that this is the only way we'd be interested in them -- and therefore, their business? Seriously, if they weren't twins, would we want to read about just Cameron buying a home or watch only Tyler eating a pistachio? (Aside from this gem.) My non-authoritative guess is a bold no. With that, I still dare them to channel Gisele Bündchen, Scarlett Johansson, Alanis Morissette, and Kiefer Sutherland — even if just for a moment — all of whom have successfully lead a life keeping their (apparently less important) twins hidden in dark closets, nowhere to be found.
[Photo Credit: WENN]
Follow Anna on Twitter @thebrandedgirl
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July
The month of July was overshadowed by the sudden and shocking death of British singer Amy Winehouse. The Back to Black hitmaker was found dead at her home in London at the age of 27 and the news sent the world of showbusiness into mourning. Tributes poured in from both fans and famous friends following the tragedy, and Winehouse's music shot back into the charts.
The headlines were also dominated by celebrity divorces as Jennifer Lopez announced her split from husband of seven years, Marc Anthony, the father of her young twins, Max and Emme. Arnold Schwarzenegger's marriage also came to an abrupt end as his wife Maria Shriver filed for divorce following revelations the actor/politician fathered a lovechild with the family's housekeeper.
Scarlett Johansson's divorce from Ryan Reynolds was finalised and Patricia Arquette's split from husband Thomas Jane was also made official.
In happier news, all eyes were on Monaco as the world geared up for the second royal wedding of the year, following the union of Britain’s Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge in April. In the same month as the British royals flew to Canada to begin their first international tour as a married couple, Prince Albert of Monaco married his fiancee, South African beauty Charlene Wittstock. The couple exchanged vows in two ceremonies in Monte Carlo and the former swimmer became her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco. British supermodel Kate Moss also became a married woman as she wed rocker Jamie Hince in a lavish ceremony in the English countryside, while it was also an exciting month for the Beckham family as former Spice Girls star Victoria, already mother to three boys, gave birth to her first daughter, Harper Seven.
There was also baby joy for Hollywood actress Kate Hudson - she welcomed a son called Bingham with her rocker fiance Matt Bellamy. Singer Jewel, actress Selma Blair and former Fugees star Lauryn Hill also became parents. British artist/director Sam Taylor-Wood also hit headlines after she confirmed she was expecting a second baby with her 21-year-old fiance, actor Aaron Johnson, a year after the birth of their daughter. The couple met on the set of their 2009 film Nowhere Boy and became parents together in 2010.
July also saw troubled British rocker Pete Doherty granted his freedom after serving less than half of his six-month prison sentence for cocaine possession. Another beleaguered star to walk free from jail was rapper DMX, who served seven months behind bars for a probation violation. However, David Gilmour’s son Charlie found himself on the other side of the prison walls as he was ordered to serve 16 months in jail for his part in the 2010 student riots in London. The Pink Floyd star’s son was charged with violent disorder for causing chaos in the British capital and swinging from a flag on the city’s Cenotaph war memorial. (LR/ZN)
August
The usual serenity of the summer months was shattered this year when Kate Winslet cheated death in a devastating inferno at Richard Branson's luxury island home, and a string of British stars appealed for calm as widespread rioting broke out in the U.K.
Winslet was holidaying at Virgin boss Branson's Necker Island retreat when lightning struck the property, sparking a huge blaze which gutted the home. Her party of 20 miraculously escaped unscathed - and Winslet was later hailed a heroine after it emerged she carried Branson's 90-year-old mother from the property during the drama.
As unrest, looting, and arson broke out for several nights in the U.K., showbiz stars including Idris Elba, Natasha Bedingfield and Boy George called for calm, and there was also bad news for Sir Paul McCartney - who learned his phone had been hacked by the tabloid press - and veteran actress Margot Kidder, who was arrested during an environment protest at the White House.
Tragedy struck at the Indiana State Fair, when a horrific stage collapse left seven revellers dead and more than 40 injured, actor Rowan Atkinson was treated in hospital after wrecking his rare sports car by crashing it into a tree, and French actor Gerard Depardieu was left red-faced when he was thrown off a plane in Paris, France for urinating in the cabin after he was refused access to the toilet during take-off.
It was ladies night at the MTV Video Music Awards as Katy Perry, Britney Spears and Lady Gaga took home two honours each - and Beyonce announced her pregnancy news. And at the Teen Choice Awards, Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez were crowned queens of the event when they scooped whopping 11 awards between them.
Kings of Leon finally succumbed to their relentless touring schedule and axed their remaining U.S. dates to allow frontman Caleb Followill to recover from "vocal issues and exhaustion", Aerosmith rocker Tom Hamilton and Deep Purple star Jon Lord both announced they were battling cancer, Bono was hospitalised with chest pains, and Norwegian pop band A-ha thrilled fans by announcing they were to reform.
In family news, Kiss star Paul Stanley became a father again, and there were also welcome additions for Ethan Hawke, funnywoman Tina Fey, illusionist David Copperfield, Jessica Alba, and Benicio del Toro, who fathered a child with Rod Stewart's daughter Kimberly.
There were wedding bells for country singer Chely Wright and filmmaker Sofia Coppola, but romance took a plunge for George Michael and Geri Halliwell, who both split from their partners. Also joining the singles club was Arctic Monkeys rocker Alex Turner, who broke up with MTV presenter Alexa Chung after four years together.
The showbiz world bid farewell to songwriting legend Jerry Leiber, who died of cardiopulmonary failure at the age of 78, Police Academy star Charles 'Bubba' Smith, Bollywood veteran Shammi Kapoor, blues legend David 'Honeyboy' Edwards, Warrant rocker Jani Lane, and Motown hitmaker Nickolas Ashford. (ZN/LR)
September
September was a month rapper T.I. would like to both remember and forget - he completed an 11-month prison sentence for a probation violation only to run into legal trouble again soon after his initial release for conducting illegal business deals on his way to a halfway house. It wasn't a great month for Madonna either - her movie take on the romance between Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII was savaged by critics at the Venice Film Festival, while her ex-husband Guy Ritchie became a dad again.
Celine Dion was left shaken up after an intruder was found running a bath at her Montreal, Canada home; Neil Diamond revealed his engagement, and Dr. Conrad Murray's involuntary manslaughter trial got underway in Los Angeles as prosecutors attempted to prove the medic was responsible for Michael Jackson's death.
R.E.M. announced they were splitting after 31 years; My Chemical Romance fired drummer Michael Pedicone after accusing him of stealing from them; Boyzone singer Ronan Keating swam the Irish Sea for Cancer Research in the U.K., and Sir Paul McCartney became a grandfather again and was named the MusiCares Person of the Year - while he also celebrated as his first ballet score debuted in New York.
The Amy Winehouse Foundation was launched on what would have been the tragic singer's 28th birthday, and the star's Body &amp; Soul duet with Tony Bennett became a hit, making the 85-year-old crooner the oldest living artist to have a single in America's Hot 100.
Eddie Murphy was confirmed as the host for the 2012 Oscars; model Lauren Bush became Lauren Lauren when she exchanged vows with Ralph Lauren's son David; British funnyman David Walliams braved the chills of the River Thames and a stomach bug to complete a charity 140-mile swim in eight days.
Actress Evan Rachel Wood lost a tooth during a boozy night out in Paris; Reese Witherspoon was hospitalised after she was hit by a car while out jogging in Santa Monica, California; soul legend Chaka Khan won temporary custody of her granddaughter after claiming the girl's mother was struggling with drug abuse issues, and British The Saturdays singer Una Healy announced she was pregnant.
INXS dropped frontman J.D. fortune for a second time and replaced him with Ciaran Gribbin; Austin Powers henchman Joseph Son was sentenced to life behind bars for a Christmas Eve rape in 1990, and George Clooney went public with his new girl, Stacey Kiebler, at the Toronto Film Festival in Canada.
Ashton Kutcher had a month of ups and downs - his debut on TV sitcom Two and a Half Men was a big hit as 28 million Americans tuned in, but then came the news that his marriage to Demi Moore was in trouble amid infidelity rumours. Comedienne Wanda Sykes opened up about her breast cancer battle and double mastectomy; Sharon Stone won a restraining order against an obsessed fan and promptly put the home he visited uninvited on the market, and reality TV star and filmmaker Jack Osbourne announced his engagement to actress Lisa Stelly and followed that up with the news he was to become a dad.
Third time was not the charm for Clueless star Stacy Dash, who announced her plans to divorce husband number three, Emmanuel Xuereb, and X-Men star James Marsden's wife also joined the divorce club as she filed papers against her husband. Elizabeth Hurley's love life was on the up - she accepted cricket star Shane Warne's wedding proposal just three months after divorcing Arun Nayar.
Meanwhile, Elton John launched his new Million Dollar Piano residency in Las Vegas; Smokey Robinson accepted the coveted Ella Award at the Society of Singers Gala, and the month wrapped up with Shania Twain's alleged stalker pleading guilty to harassing the singer in court in Ontario, Canada.
Among September's Hollywood weddings, Amy Smart married reality TV star Carter Oosterhouse; Cougar Town co-stars David Rogers and Sally Pressman became man and wife, and model-turned-actress Molly Sims wed in a Napa Valley vineyard in California. There were also nuptials for British filmmaker Michael Winner and DJ/producer Mark Ronson, while R&amp;B singer Keyshia Cole and former Friends star David Schwimmer both renewed vows with their spouses in Hawaii and London, respectively.
There was baby news for model Jodie Kidd, who gave birth to a son; actress Mary McCormack, who became a mum for the third time, and January Jones, who welcomed Xander Dane to the world while staying mum about the tot's father. Actors Emily Deschanel, Ana Ortiz, Mike Myers, Danny McBride and Jenna Fischer also became new parents. In the music world, former Spice Girl Melanie Brown gave birth to her third daughter, and country star John Rich and former Pussycat Dolls member Carmit Bachar welcomed babies too.
On September's sick list were rocker Scott Weiland and pop stars Katy Perry and Adele, who both scrapped shows due to illness, while Megadeth headbanger Dave Mustaine underwent surgery for a serious neck injury.
The month's big winners included movie mogul Tyler Perry, who was named Forbes magazine's Highest Paid Man in Entertainment; actor Michael Fassbender and director Alexander Sokurov, who claimed Best Actor and Best Film honours, respectively, for Shame and Faust at the Venice Film Festival. Gritty TV drama Boardwalk Empire picked up eight Emmy Awards; Calle 13 landed a record 10 Latin Grammy Award nominations, and Happy Days star Henry Winkler picked up an honorary Order of the British Empire medal at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Also winning: P.J. Harvey, who scooped the Mercury Prize in Britain, Arcade Fire, who claimed Canada's Polaris Prize, and U2 and Rolling Stone Keith Richards, who were named GQ magazine's Men of the Year.
September's losers included Scarlett Johansson, who was left exposed in a series of leaked naked phone photos; Cameron Diaz, who split from baseball beau Alex Rodriguez, and John Travolta, whose beloved Mercedes-Benz was stolen outside a Jaguar dealership in Santa Monica, while his Swordfish co-star Halle Berry broke her foot while on location in Spain.
Meanwhile, we said a sad goodbye to a slew of famous faces, including actors Andy Whitfield and Cliff Robertson; beloved TV stars Mary Fickett and Vesta Williams; actor Jack Garner; French DJ Mehdi Faveris-Essadi; blues great Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith; R&amp;B hitmaker Vesta Williams; gospel icon Jessy Dixon; celebrated British writer/producer David Croft; Happy Gilmore star Frances Bay, and moviemakers David Pressman, Charles Dubin, George Kachar and Paul Hunt. (KL/MT)
October
October was a big month for celebrity weddings - funnyman Seth Rogen tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Lauren Miller, Twilight star Nikki Reed married singer/songwriter Paul McDonald, and former Beverly Hills, 90210 actress Shannen Doherty walked down the aisle for the third time when she exchanged vows with celebrity photographer Kurt Iswarienko. Also hoping to make it third-time lucky was Robin Williams, who wed graphic designer Susan Schneider.
Also taking the plunge was Kiss rocker Gene Simmons, who married his girlfriend of 28 years, Shannon Tweed, and Sir Paul McCartney, who exchanged vows with American heiress Nancy Shevell on what would have been his former Beatles bandmate John Lennon’s 71st birthday.
And Sex &amp; the City star Mario Cantone made good use of New York's new gay rights bill by solidifying his love for longtime partner Jerry Dixon.
A number of other stars announced their intention to wed in October - NCIS: Los Angeles star Eric Christian Olsen proposed to girlfriend Sarah Wright and Trace Cyrus popped the question to Disney actress Brenda Song. And actress Kaley Cuoco was sporting a new sparkler after boyfriend Josh 'Lazie' Resnik got down on bended knee. Also officially off the market were former child star Frankie Muniz, The Devil Wears Prada actor Stanley Tucci, rapper The Game and Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love's grown-up little girl Francis Bean Cobain.
A number of other celebrities were prepping their homes for babies - movie star Bruce Willis, American footballer Tony Romo, former Dawson's Creek hunk James Van Der Beek, and actress Kaitlin Olson all announced they are expecting little ones, and Jessica Simpson ended months of speculation by announcing she was pregnant.
And October's new parents included Ne-Yo, who welcomed a baby boy, model Ali Landry, who gave birth to her second child, actress Spencer Grammer, who became a first time mum, and France's First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, who became a mum for the second time when baby Giulia was born. Reality TV star Tori Spelling took home baby number three, as did Jackass funnyman Johnny Knoxville. And Sex &amp; the City beauty Kristin Davis, The Help actress Viola Davis and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation veteran Mariska Hargitay all adopted babies.
But it wasn't such a happy month for rapper Rick Ross, who suffered two seizures on his way to a concert, or socialite Kim Kardashian who filed for divorce from husband Kris Humphries after just 72 days of marriage.
In other news, Star Trek actor Zachary Quinto announced he was gay and troubled actress Lindsay Lohan had her probation revoked after failing to complete her required community service hours. She also faced a limousine lawsuit for allegedly neglecting to pay a bill, her dad was arrested - twice, and she was served a lawsuit for reportedly attacking a Betty Ford Clinic employee during her stay there last year (10).
Meanwhile, the stars came out to show their support for the Occupy Wall Street protests, which were originally launched in New York City in a bid to end corporate greed, and the world mourned the loss of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, British TV and radio personality Sir Jimmy Savile, The Charlie Daniels Band keyboard player Joel 'Taz' Digregorio, former Weezer star Mikey Welsh, veteran British actress Betty Driver, The Miracles guitarist Marv Tarplin, pianist Roger Williams and IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon, who died in a horrific car smash at the Indy300.
November
British bachelor Hugh Grant stunned the world when he announced he had a new love in his life - a baby girl he had fathered during a brief relationship with Chinese model/actress Tinglan Hong. He wasn't the only star to join the celebrity parents' club in November - singer Lily Allen had a reason to Smile again after giving birth to a daughter, her first child with new husband Sam Cooper, while newsman Piers Morgan and his wife Celia Walden also became parents to a little girl. Maggie Gyllenhaal and her husband Peter Sarsgaard announced they were expecting their second child, as did reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian and her partner Scott Disick.
Selena Gomez revealed she is set to become a big sister, while Justin Bieber had some unwanted baby news of his own - he found himself at the centre of a paternity scandal following allegations he had impregnated 20-year-old Mariah Yeater following a backstage tryst in Los Angeles last year (10). The Baby hitmaker denied the claim and Yeater subsequently dropped the lawsuit.
Lindsay Lohan's troubles hit the headlines again after she was sentenced to serve 30 days behind bars for a probation violation, although she was released after less than five hours due to jail overcrowding. Dr. Conrad Murray was not so lucky - he was convicted of involuntary manslaughter relating to the death of Michael Jackson and sentenced to the maximum of four years behind bars.
In other legal matters, country singer Mindy McCready sparked a manhunt after she took her five-year-old son Zander from his father's Florida home without permission; Tim McGraw won a court battle with his record company bosses releasing him from his contract; and TLC star T-Boz declared bankruptcy.
Hugh Grant, Sienna Miller and Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling became driving forces in the push to improve British press standards following the News of the World phone-hacking scandal earlier this year (11) - the three stars were called to give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry and told how they had had their voicemails, emails and other private messages intercepted by private investigators working on behalf of tabloid reporters.
The sporting world mourned the death of boxing great Joe Frazier at the age of 67, just days after it was revealed he was battling liver cancer, while the hip-hop industry was rocked by the passing of rap icon Heavy D, who collapsed outside his Los Angeles home and was later declared dead at 44. British moviemaker Ken Russell also passed away, aged 84, and longtime Oscars producer Gil Cates died at 77. Meanwhile, Beatles fans remembered George Harrison on 29 November as fans marked the 10th anniversary of his death.
Veteran pop star George Michael was forced to scrap the remainder of his European tour after he was struck down by a serious bout of pneumonia; Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb also spent time in hospital after suffering abdominal pains, and Adele and Keith Urban had a quiet month as they both recovered from vocal cord surgery, while heavy rock fans rejoiced as the original members of Black Sabbath announced they would be reuniting for a new album and tour in 2012.
It was ladies' night at the American Music Awards as Taylor Swift and Adele walked away with three honours each, while Lady Gaga reigned over the MTV Europe Music Awards and newlyweds Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton ruled the Country Music Association Awards by taking home the two top vocalist prizes. November also saw Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher end weeks of speculation about their marriage by calling it quits, while Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles tied the knot and Anne Hathaway began making plans to wed boyfriend Adam Schulman, and former The Hills star Kristin Cavallari and American footballer Jay Cutler became engaged again, months after they broke off their initial plans to marry.
And it was a busy month for the film industry - the latest Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn - Part 1, landed the biggest global debut in the film franchise's history, thanks to a massive $284 million (£177.5 million) opening weekend haul; Golden Globes bosses decided to bring back controversial comedian Ricky Gervais to host his third prizegiving in 2012; Billy Crystal stepped in for Eddie Murphy as the host of the 2012 Academy Awards a day after the comic and producer pal Brett Ratner resigned, and the race for the Oscars kicked off with the Gotham Independent Film Awards, where Terrence Malick's Tree of Life and Mike Mills' acclaimed Beginners made history when they became the first films to tie for the Best Feature prize in the ceremony's 21-year history.
December
The holiday bells were peeling for newlyweds A.J. McLean, actress Judy Greer, reality TV star Jeff Probst and Yeah Yeah Yeahs rocker Karen O, while Sinead O'Connor married an addiction counsellor in Las Vegas only to call off the union 16 days later. There were also splits for actress Debra Messing and Chaz Bono.
Britney Spears led the month's bride and grooms-to-be when she accepted former agent Jason Trawick's proposal on his 40th birthday, while Steven Tyler, John Legend, Matthew McConaughey, basketball legend Michael Jordan and Lady Antebellum's Dave Haywood all popped the question to their girlfriends - and there was baby news for new dads Robert De Niro, Halle Berry's ex Eric Benet, actor Charlie Day, Westlife star Kian Egan, actress/singer Fantasia Barrino, Essence Atkins and pop star Dev, while actress Alyson Hannigan, Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty, Kings of Leon star Caleb Followill's supermodel wife Lily Aldridge, Alessandra Ambrosio and Irish singer Andrea Corr announced they were pregnant.
There was drama for rapper Tyler, The Creator, who was arrested for alleged acts of vandalism during a show in Hollywood; singer Christina Perri, who was attacked in a car-jacking incident; Barry Manilow, who underwent hip surgery, and Morrissey, whose concert in Puebla, Mexico was evacuated following an earthquake, while Britain's Prince Philip and R&amp;B star Etta James spent Christmas in hospital.
Lindsay Lohan bared all for Playboy magazine; Adam Lambert was arrested in Finland following a pre-Christmas bust-up with his boyfriend; rapper The Game halted a gig in Norway to confront a bottle-throwing fan; boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr. was sentenced to 90 days in jail for a 2010 fight with his ex; a man who leaked an unfinished new Madonna song online was arrested in Spain, and Michael Douglas' incarcerated son Cameron was handed an extra four-and-a-half years behind bars for another drug conviction.
And there was yet more drama for Terrence Howard, who requested a restraining order against his wife; model Lauren Scruggs, who lost her hand and an eye in a freak plane propeller accident; Hollywood couple Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart, who had to vacate their home after high winds brought a tree crashing into their living room, and pop star Selena Gomez suffered a family tragedy when her mother miscarried.
Meanwhile, Jodie Foster's estranged father was jailed for five years after he was found guilty of a property scam; Angelina Jolie was sued by a Croatian journalist who alleged his chronicle of the Bosnian War inspired her directorial debut; Kirsten Dunst won a restraining order against an obsessed French fan; an extra died of a heart attack while shooting The Dark Knight Rises in New York; Goodfellas actor Tony Darrow was sentenced to six months behind bars for arranging a real-life mob beating, and Charlie Sheen had to change his phone number when he accidentally tweeted it to his followers.
The month's big winners included singer Melanie Amaro, who became the first U.S. X Factor winner; Julio Iglesias, who was named Spain's best-selling recording artist of all time; Russell Simmons, who was crowned PETA's Person of the Year; Chaka Khan, who won permanent custody of her granddaughter; Lady Gaga, who was hailed the year's highest earning female musician, and Taylor Swift who picked up Billboard magazine's coveted Woman of The Year honour.
Also winning in December: Guns N' Roses, the Beastie Boys and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who were all announced as the members of the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2012, and Twilight star Kristen Stewart, who was named Forbes magazine's Most Lucrative Star. Adele dominated the year's end album and singles polls; Jason Newsted reunited with Metallica for their 30th anniversary bash in San Francisco, and Martin Scorsese's first 3D movie Hugo was the surprise Best Film winner at the National Board of Review Awards in America.
In other movie news, Transformers: Dark of The Moon was named the year's most mistake-ridden film; Orson Welles' Citizen Kane Oscar sold at auction for $861,000; Drive dominated the Satellite Awards while The Help, The Artist and The Descendants picked up the lion's share of nominations for the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Angelina Jolie's directorial debut, In The Land of Blood and Honey, also picked up Golden Globes nods and she was named the 2012 recipient of the Stanley Kramer Award at the Producer's Guild of America Awards.
In music news, Amy Winehouse's posthumous album debuted at number one in Britain; 30 Seconds To Mars broke a concert record at a show in New York - their 309th in a single album cycle, and Gucci Mane was released from prison.
Wrapping up the month, Oscar winner Colin Firth was immortalised in wax at Madame Tussauds in London; Men's Health magazine bosses crowned Jennifer Aniston the Hottest Woman of All Time; Liz Taylor's diamonds and gems set a new auction record by becoming the most valuable private jewellery collection; LMFAO were forced to abandon a gig in Honduras after a fire broke out at the venue; Welsh opera star Katherine Jenkins announced her split from fiance Gethin Jones, and Coldplay rang in 2012 with a $1.6 million gig in Abu Dhabi.
And the last month of the year saw the notable deaths of actor Bill McKinney, soul stars Dobie Gray and Howard Tate, M*A*S*H regular Harry Morgan, Clark Gable and Loretta Young's love child Judy Lewis, actress Doe Avedon Siegel, former child star Susan Gordon, country singer Billie Jo Spears, Aussie actor Graham Bown, world leaders Vaclav Havel and Kim Jong-Il, songwriter Ralph MacDonald, Kojak star Dan Frazer, directors Don Sharp and Yoshimitsu Morita, writer Christopher Hitchens and Tarzan's chimp sidekick Cheetah, who died of liver failure, aged 80.

With the holiday season upon us, we find ourselves immersed once again in the hustle and bustle that comes with it. Houses are being decorated (both inside and out), snow is starting to cover the ground, and there’s just a general source of merriment in the air. Sure, it also means that your bank account is going to drop sufficiently after all the holiday shopping and there’s a good chance you’re going to get involved in one or two family fights, but that’s all part of the grand tradition…right? It all depends on how you look at it.
Yes, the holidays come with a measure of stress, but also a lot of joy and laughter. Whether you're stuffing yourself with delicious Thanksgiving turkey or tearing open tons of packages under the Christmas tree, you're going to be surrounded by the people that you love and that's never a bad thing. But for those of you who are still having trouble embracing the holiday frivolity, I decided to compose a list of some must-see holiday rom-coms. Most romantic comedies are usually suitable to watch all year round, but there’s just something about these movies that never fails to put you in the Christmas spirit (at least for 2 hours anyway). Some are traditional holiday classics, while others have a more modern-day appeal, but they all contain that feel-goodness that you can only find during this time of year. Each and every one of these films guarantees to get you out of your winter funk and high on Christmas cheer. Let the Holiday Netflix Streaming begin!
Love Actually
This is probably one of the best holiday films ever created. The movie is made up of a top-notch celebrity ensemble who end up all being connected to each other in some form or another. Each individual character is experiencing their own unique set of problems during the holiday season, which result in some rather touching moments. New relationships are discovered while others come to an end; some love is forbidden, while others have to face a language barrier. But the theme of the film is constant: love is everywhere! It may sound cheesy, but this movie provides a great mix of comedy to go along with all the romance. Plus any movie that features Hugh Grant as a dashing Prime Minister (who can dance) deserves major praise. The Holiday
Who knew when you’d put Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black in a movie together, you’d get such a feel-good holiday film, but that’s exactly what you get. Two women, who meet each other on a home-exchange website, impulsively decide to switch homes for the holidays. One heads off to sunny California while the other experiences the snow-covered English countryside. Once removed from their natural environment, they are forced to develop a better understanding of themselves and even end up finding love along the way. Who knew that a change of address could end up changing your life so much! If I could be guaranteed to meet Jude Law, I would totally give this whole house-swap thing a try. Four Christmases
Holidays and family bonding are sort of a package deal. I mean, what’s Christmas without a little family embarrassment? Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn get a double, double dose of family fun (and by fun, I really mean nightmare) throughout the course of the movie. Since both come from broken homes, these two are forced to visit all four of their divorced parents on Christmas Day and as you can guess…things get a little crazy. Talk about family overload – this couple gets it in spades, but the end still leaves you with that warm fuzzy feeling that comes from the realization of the importance of family. For better or for worse, they’re yours for keeps. It’s A Wonderful Life
Have you ever pictured a world where you didn’t exist? Maybe wonder how different other people’s lives would be if you were never part of it? Well George Bailey gets to experience it firsthand in this holiday classic that is nothing short of heartwarming. After contemplating suicide, a down-on-his-luck businessman meets an angel who shows him what life would have been like if he’d never existed. In the end, George is made to realize just how many lives he’s touched throughout the years and that despite all his troubles, he truly has a wonderful life. (the trailer really doesn't do it justice, but don't let that put you off from seeing it -- it's a great film!) Marley &amp; Me
If you think your dog is a pain, you should definitely get a load of this pup. You’ll never under-appreciate your dog again once you see the kind of trouble Marley gets into. Based on the New York Times bestseller, the story focuses on a young couple who embark (pun intended) on the many adventures that come with marriage, career, family, and pet ownership. Although it starts off as a comedy, be ready to shed a few tears by the end as the couple realizes just how much love a dog can bring into your life. You know you want this little guy waiting for you under your tree. The Family Stone
Meeting the parents is always a huge benchmark in any serious relationship. You’re always unsure what to say, how to act, and you experience this overwhelming fear that they aren’t going to like you. Well in this movie, fear becomes reality for an uptight, businesswoman who accompanies her boyfriend to his parent’s house for their annual Christmas celebration. But it turns out she’s not just meeting the parents…she’s meeting the entire family. Yeah, talk about pressure. She feels like a fish out of water as she tries SO HARD to get them to like her, but it’s quite an uphill battle. There are so many awkward moments in this film, you can’t help but laugh and be thankful that it’s her and not you. The Family Man
Life is full of regrets and sometimes you just can’t help but question some of the decisions you’ve made along the way. You ask yourself What if I had gone to this college? or What if I had chosen this major? The world is full of What ifs but no one ever gets to experience the road not taken…accept for Jack Campbell. Jack is a workaholic bachelor who gets a glimpse of what his life would’ve been like had he stayed with his college sweetheart instead of taking a job in New York City. Now at the mercy of a wife and two kids, Jack finally learns just how important family can be. One decision really can change your life. Serendipity
By definition, Serendipity means an accidental discovery and that’s exactly how these two people find their happily ever after. It all started with a pair of gloves that lead to two random strangers spending an evening together and inevitably falling in love. Without exchanging each other’s names or numbers, they rely on fate to decide if they will ever see each other again. This film demonstrates a Christmas miracle in its truest form and leaves you with the feeling that anything is possible. Plus nothing says holiday spirit quite like Christmas in New York.

Are you tired of fruitcake and Christmas cheer, but still want to observe that cozy wintry tradition of watching movies with the ones you love? Do you adore snow and biting cold, but not reindeer and elves from the North Pole? Would you rather hear dick jokes and see exploding planes than Santa saving Christmas and families gathering around a fire in matching red pajamas? Do you like stealing presents from adorable little snowflake-dwelling children and making your employees work on Christmas day? If you answered yes to any of those then you might be a bit of a scrooge, but before you get offended you should know I’m only here to help. Christmastime doesn’t have to be a season of apathetic groaning and eye rolling; you can have wintry fun too.
That’s why I’ve put together a list of alternatives for the Grinch in all of us, ranging from something for a mildly scroogey movie-lover to something that undoes an attack of momentary holiday insanity after a three month long season of endless carolers, bell-ringing Santa's on every corner and over-joyous elves wrapping your purchases at the mall. If you’re a scrooge of any degree, it’s okay. Embrace your distaste for the most wonderful time of the year and enjoy some of these alternative seasonal features.
Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
So you’re not completely scroogey, but maybe the typical visions of sugar plums have danced through your head one too many times. You need a Christmas movie that challenges the holiday's traditions, from the inquisitive montage where Jack Skellington tries to dissect candy canes and paper snowflakes to the undead Frankenstein-style flying reindeer to Santa-Jack’s terrifying presents that chase children around their homes, it’s a terrifyingly jolly way to celebrate the season of cheer without getting too cookie-cutter.
The Star Wars Christmas Special (1978)
So maybe you’ve seen Nightmare a few too many times. You need something even stranger. Enter the long lost Star Wars Christmas Special. Yes it’s strangely cute; yes it aims to put you in a yuletide mood; but is it completely INSANE? Yes, yes it is.
Dumb and Dumber (1994)
This is for fans of Christmas, Lloyd Christmas. The classic comedy isn’t really a Christmas movie but it does take a few of those holiday tropes and fart all over them. It’s the film that gives us Jeff Daniels defiling a snowman, violently pegging his lady-crush in the face with a snowball and taking on that famous scene from A Christmas Story by getting his tongue stuck to the metal pole on a ski lift.
Scrooged (1988)
This Bill Murray staple is the perfect comedic rendering of a traditional and oft overdone Christmas tale. You can still get the holiday moral without the heavy handedness of the original Charles Dickens tale (which I love, don’t get me wrong) - plus you may feel just a little less cantankerous when you get to the end (but not too cheery, don’t worry). I mean, the movie includes Christmas ghosts that smoke cigars and hit people with toasters: you really can’t go wrong here.
Die Hard 2 (1990)
A scroogey Christmas list isn’t complete without at least one Die Hard movie. Of course everyone goes with Die Hard, but don’t forget that the follow up was also a Christmas Eve escapade and it includes John McClane defeating a band of terrorists on a plane with little more than a lighter. What do I want for Christmas? Some true badassery, that’s what. Yippee ki-yay motherf***er.
Fargo (1996)
It’s a wintry wonderland in Fargo, North Dakota, but the holiday spirit in this Coen Brothers classic is non-existent. There’s murder, intrigue, prostitutes, a pregnant police chief and that infamous wood chipper scene – and that red snow is anything but holly jolly.
Batman Returns (1992)
I’ll admit, there’s an exorbitant amount of Tim Burton on this list (I resisted adding Edward Scissorhands as well), but the man really knows how to screw up Christmas. Besides the fact that it’s a Batman movie and by default awesome, it gives us giant Christmas boxes full of bad guys, cuddly little penguins blowing stuff up and Michele Pfeiffer in head-to-toe leather (Merry Christmas, dudes). Besides who needs a plucky little elf when you can watch the Dark Knight save Christmas? (Or Gotham at Christmastime, but let’s not split hairs, okay?)
Bad Santa (2003)
He swears, he’s drunk, he’s just downright belligerent and his sidekick/elf is just as foulmouthed as he is. Billy Bob Thorton’s Bad Santa is the film equivalent of telling holiday cheer to suck it. Enjoy, scroogies.
The Shining (1980)
Here’s Johnny! While most people are getting excited about their winter breaks, looking forward to solitude, evenings by the fire with hot chocolate and Christmas carols, togetherness, peace, love and harmony - you know, all that baloney - take a dive into the ultimate bout of cabin fever with this Kubrick classic. By the end you’ll want to stay as far away from evergreens and wintry wonderlands as you possibly can.
Black Christmas (1975)
This is a film for the ultimate Grinch. Do you want to see Christmastime annihilated? Instead of an advent calendar do you keep a “Thank-God-There-are-only-____more-days-of-this-holiday-crap” calendar? Slash yuletide carols to tiny slivers with this original horror film from the 70s. Not only did it give us many of the slasher tropes that are a part of every modern horror flick, it literally turns Christmas into a sorority girl massacre. Ho-ho-horrifying. Enjoy.

The Boys Don't Cry star was shooting in The Karoo, South Africa when she took a shine to a local stray who followed her around the set - and she decided to make sure she was OK before she left the country.
Convinced someone was looking after the dog - because she looked well fed, Swank was stunned when she learned the mutt was actually close to death.
She says, "I took her to the vet and the vet said..., 'She's actually fat because she's full of worms'.
"She had so many fleas on her they said that they should have sucked all her blood out; they couldn't believe it... She had seven ticks in one ear and six in the other.
"They said, 'If you don't take this dog, she will certainly not make it.'"
Swank took the dog home with her and added another rescued pet, Roomie, last year (08).
She adds, "They bring a lot of joy to my life."
The actress' love of strays will come into full effect this holiday season - she has signed on as a celebrity spokesperson for Iams Home For The Holidays campaign, and is urging potential pet owners to adopt animals this Christmas.
She explains, "There are eight million animals that need homes and about six million of them get put to sleep every year."

Star Jones ties the knot in a lavish ceremony
ABC's The View co-host Star Jones married banker Al Reynolds in a star-studded ceremony in New York on Saturday. According to the Associated Press, hundreds of celebrities, friends and family of the couple packed St. Bartholomew's Church to watch 42-year-old Star Jones exchange wedding vows with Reynolds. Jones wore a designer strapless dress with a 27-foot train that required seven people to carry it. Her The View co-host Barbara Walters attended the ceremony that included celebrities like Spike Lee, Sen. Hillary Clinton, and Vivica A. Fox. A performance by Patti LaBelle was also included in the wedding ceremony. "I smiled a lot," said Walters. "I was happy for her. She had the biggest smile I'd ever seen." The ceremony lasted until 8 p.m. before moving to the Wardolf-Astoria Hotel for the reception.
Rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard dies unexpectedly
One of the founding members in the rap group Wu-Tang Clan, Ol' Dirty Bastard, 35, collapsed and died in New York on Saturday, Reuters reports. Investigators are not certain why the former rapper died so suddenly. Ol' Dirty Bastard, whose real name is Russell Jones, reported having chest pains during his visit to a recording studio, but paramedics were unable to save him. Although ODB has a history of drug abuse, a spokesperson said that the rapper was clean at the time of his death. After serving three years in a New York City jail for drug offenses and probation violation, Jones was released in 2003. According to Blender magazine, Jones also fathered 13 children.
Diaz and Timberlake sued for assault and battery
Two photographers who claim they were attacked and taunted by the couple outside a ritzy Los Angeles hotel are suing actress Cameron Diaz and pop star boyfriend, Justin Timberlake, the AP reports. Saul Lazo and Jose Gonzalez filed the lawsuit against the power couple on Friday, claiming that they suffered emotional distress and physical harm. Lazo claims that Diaz ran at him, hitting his neck, tripping him, and stealing his camera. Timberlake then allegedly screamed at the bleeding photographer saying, "What ... are you going to do, man? I know you are not going to do anything." Claiming that they were just trying to do their job, Lazo and Gonzalez say that they were standing 10-feet away from the couple when they were ambushed by the Charlie's Angels star outside the Chateau Marmont hotel on Nov. 6.
Jury selection still underway in Blake murder trial
With jury selection continuing today in case against actor Robert Blake, defense attorneys for Robert Blake say that they are looking for jurors who love a good mystery and like to investigate conspiracy theories, the AP reports. Prosecutors against the defendant say that they are looking for conservative people with common sense who can also make quick decisions. With more than 700 potential jurors already dismissed for financial or moral reasons, about 100 jurors remain in the prospective pool. The 71-year-old former Baretta star is being accused of killing his wife outside a restaurant on May 4, 2001. Blake has pleaded not guilty to one count of murder, two counts of solicitation of murder and a special circumstance of lying in wait.
Celebrity couple, Lohan and Valderrama, split
Actress Lindsay Lohan and That 70's Show actor Wilmer Valderrama have ended their relationship, the AP reports. Valderrama's publicist, Heidi Slan said, "They have broken up, but are still friends." Lohan's publicist, Leslie Sloane Zelnik was quoted saying, "I can confirm that they have amicably split, but the two remain close friends and supportive of each other's busy careers." The Mean Girls star and Valderrama became a couple just after her 18th birthday in July and Lohan recently guest starred with Valderrama on his show. Lohan, who was hospitalized on October for extreme fever and headaches, also starred in Freaky Friday and is currently filming the upcoming Herbie: Fully Loaded.
More self-destructing DVDs to reach homes
Movie producers are hoping to create buzz around disposable DVDs by releasing the Christmas-themed movie Noel on Amazon.com. The emotional holiday tale starring Susan Sarandon, Penelope Cruz and Robin Williams was shown at this year's Toronto Film Festival, but did not create as much interest as expected. Atlanta-based Convex group then bought distribution rights to the movie, and plans to release it in a few dozen theatres. After a short release, the movie can be seen on cable television, then the DVD will be available on sale at Amazon.com at $4.99 per unit. Once opened, each DVD can only "live" up to 60 hours, after which the player's laser will be unable to read the movie. The concept of disposable DVDs has been available for a while, but the potential for wasted plastic to add to already overflowing landfills is a problem.

Top Story: Paris Hilton Videotape Leaked
Paris Hilton, heir to the Hilton hotel fortune and star of Fox's upcoming reality series The Simple Life, is trying to stop the distribution of a homemade video that reportedly features her having sex with Rick Solomon, who went on to marry former Charmed star Shannen Doherty in 2002. Hilton's spokesperson Siri Garber told The Associated Press the tape was made three years ago while Solomon and Hilton were dating. "Not everybody indulges in that, but couples do it sometimes and it's just for themselves, for fun. She never intended for it to be seen by anybody other than the two of them," Garber said. An unidentified person reportedly distributed the video to some gossip columnists and Hilton's lawyers are trying to determine whether Solomon, 33, was involved in releasing the tape. Solomon, who owns a clothing and DVD company that distributes amateur party videos of scantily clad women, has supposedly split with Doherty but the status of their relationship is unclear, the AP reports.
LAPD Fires Celeb-Tracking Officer
The Los Angeles Police Department has fired a police officer who used department computers to review confidential records on celebrities, including Halle Berry, Jennifer Aniston and Dylan McDermott, the AP reports. Officer Kelly Chrisman, who was fired Oct. 27, said his superiors assigned him to look up the information as part of a project to map celebrity homes to help monitor potential stalkers, but the LAPD says no such project existed. Investigators say they do not know what Chrisman, 35, did with the information he accessed between 1994 and 2000.
Critics of Gibson's Passion Harassed
Two scholars who have criticized Mel Gibson's The Passion of Christ said Thursday they have received hate mail in response to their comments. According to the AP, Sister Mary Boys, a professor at Union Theological Seminary in New York, and Paula Fredriksen, a Boston University professor, have received hateful e-mails from Gibson supporters. The women made the comments at a panel discussion about the film, which centers on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, at a national meeting of the Anti-Defamation League. The Passion of Christ is set for release Feb. 25.
Fox Releases Alien Quadrilogy
Twentieth Century Fox announced it will release Alien Quadrilogy, a boxed set of all four of director Ridley's Scott's Alien installments, on Dec. 2. According to Variety, the 9-disc set, priced at $99.98, contains the theatrical editions of all four movies in the series, including the theatrical version of Aliens, which has never been released on DVD before. Extras include nearly 45 hours of bonus features, directors' cuts of three of the movies and a restored "pre-release" version of Alien3. Double-disc DVD sets of each film will be sold separately beginning Jan. 6 for $26.98 each.
CBS Sings Hilary Duff
CBS has signed a comedy pilot deal with 16-year-old Lizzie McGuire star Hilary Duff and will develop a starring vehicle for the young actress for the 2004-05 season, Reuters reports. Disney's Lizzie McGuire wrapped production in July 2002 but Duff and her representatives had a public falling-out with the Mouse House after the two sides could not come to terms over a proposed sequel to The Lizzie McGuire Movie. CBS views signing Duff, who starts a national concert tour later this month to support her solo debut album, Metamorphosis, as an opportunity to cater to younger viewers.
VH-1 Updating Partridge Family
Music cabler VH-1 is planning an updated version of the 1970s sitcom The Partridge Family, which ran on ABC from 1970-74. According to The Hollywood Reporter Sony Pictures Television, which holds rights to the show about a musical family, will produce a reality series for VH-1 chronicling the casting of the family as well as a scripted half-hour pilot featuring the winners. No production date has been set, but the network is aiming to make it a tentpole of its 2004 schedule.
Timberlake Wins Big at MTV Europe Awards
Justin Timberlake was the big winner Thursday night at the MTV Europe Awards, walking away with three top prizes, including best male, best pop and best album for his debut album Justified. Christina Aguilera, who hosted the awards ceremony, was named best female artist. Other winners included Jamaican dancehall reggae sensation Sean Paul, who was named best new act of the year, and Beyoncé, who took the best R&amp;B award, while MTV viewers voted her single "Crazy in Love" best song of the year.
Role Call: Jackson, Arquette, Hershey, Christensen Set for King Thriller
Jonathan Jackson, David Arquette, Barbara Hershey and Erika Christensen have been set to star in Riding the Bullet, an adaptation of the Stephen King e-book, for writer/director Mick Garris, Variety reports. Set on Halloween in 1969, the supernatural thriller follows a 21-year-old New England college student (Jackson), who attempts suicide after his girlfriend (Christensen) breaks up with him. But when he learns that his mother (Hershey) has had a stroke, he hitchhikes through rural Maine to visit her bedside, and is picked up by a mysterious driver (Arquette).